Police investigating alleged attack during high school game 02-15-05

MEDIA RELEASE

Big Island police have confirmed they are investigating a complaint that a Konawaena High School basketball player attacked a referee during a game Wednesday evening (February 9, 2004) at the Konawaena school gymnasium.

Kona patrol officers are investigating a complaint made at 8:15 p.m. Wednesday from referee Mason Souza, 41, that he was attacked by Kainoa Austin Abril, 18, of Captain Cook, during a game with Waiakea High School. Abril is a senior at Konawaena.

“Once our investigation is complete, we will turn over the results to the Hawaii County prosecutor’s office for disposition,” said Paul Kealoha, head of the Kona Patrol Division.

“It’s especially unfortunate that this incident has occurred during a student activity that we believe promotes good citizenship and community involvement.”